Assemblywoman Kim Sooyoung of Gwangju Seo District Calls for Creation of a Healthy Drinking Culture Environment

Expansion of Alcohol-Free Zones to Urban Parks and More

Assemblywoman Kim Sooyoung of Gwangju Seo District announced on September 10 that the "Ordinance Bill for the Full Amendment of the Gwangju Seo District Ordinance on the Creation and Support of a Healthy Drinking Culture Environment," which she proposed at the 333rd extraordinary session on September 9, has passed the relevant standing committee.

Assemblyman Soo Young Kim. Photo by Soo Young Kim

Assemblywoman Kim stated, "There are social harms and inconveniences caused by drinking, and due to the ongoing practice of drinking regardless of time or place, various side effects have emerged, such as noise and conflicts in apartment complexes, illegal drinking in children's playgrounds and parks, as well as increases in drunk driving and crime." She added, "In particular, drinking in apartment gazebos or playgrounds has led to resident conflicts and safety threats, which has consistently raised the need for a regulatory response, leading to the establishment of this ordinance."

The previous ordinance only allowed children's parks to be designated as alcohol-free zones, but the amended ordinance expands this designation to include urban parks. Additionally, if more than half of the residents in a housing complex agree, all or part of the common areas in apartment complexes can now be designated as alcohol-free zones under the revised ordinance.

Assemblywoman Kim said, "The expected effects of implementing this ordinance are clear. First, it will help reduce the harms of drinking in daily life and contribute to protecting residents' health." She continued, "It is expected to prevent disputes within apartment complexes, block the possibility of youth being exposed to alcohol, ensure a safer living environment, reduce the social and economic costs caused by drinking, and have a positive impact on the city's image."

She further added, "This ordinance amendment is the first step to ensure that all citizens can live in a safer and more pleasant environment. We will conduct joint guidance activities and promotional campaigns in cooperation with the Seobu Police Station to ensure the system is successfully established with the support of residents."